Surely you’ve heard of this old saying? “Knee high by the Fourth of July”. Right now, the corn is just about knee high. There is much anticipation to see how this year’s crop will unfold. We have received a lot of rain for the month of June. The corn has almost reached it’s canopy stage, and it is looking in pretty good condition. The Fourth of July is right around the corner – it is hands down – one of my favorite times of the year.
Ahh, summertime…
This time of year in Iowa is breathtaking.
We are surrounded by a deep green in our lush grasses, abundant tree leaves, and the lilies and phlox are nearly ready to flower. When out in the countryside, I am in awe of the amazing patterns I see through the fields – from rows of big leafy corn stalks to smaller clusters of lighter green from the soybeans. The hay fields blow whimsically with their little purple blossoms, intricately wrapped bales of golden hay set across the blue horizon, and pink wild roses can be found just a few steps from the gravel road. It looks like a bountiful patchwork quilt that has been draped over our rolling hills. Yes, this is Iowa!
O beautiful for spacious skies,
For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain!
America! America!
God shed his grace on thee
Today marks the first day of Summer and the longest day of the year! Embrace this summer and the picturesque landscape here in Iowa. Barbeque with family and friends. Go for a bike ride. Eat fresh sweetcorn. Stay up late catching lightning bugs. Pick berries. Make homemade ice cream. Linger on that fading sunset.
